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Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine sub-region is one of the fourteen appellations in the Libournais wine area, Right-Bank of Bordeaux wine region of Southwest France. It is the northernmost of the four satellite clusters within the larger Saint-Émilion wine appellation, producing Merlot-based red wines. However, a couple of other grape varieties are also accepted in production in order to manufacture full-bodied and elegant Lussac-Saint-Émilion red wine with cherry or other red fruit flavours, moderate acidity, and a well-balanced taste. There are 170 skilful winegrowers in this area, and their care is enormous; combined with the excellent climatic conditions, soil, and century-long traditions, they provide a unique taste of wine, hard to find anywhere else. 
Find out more about wine tasting and tours in Lussac-Saint-Émilion!

Where is Lussac-Saint-Émilion located? 

The sub-region is located on the Garonne and Dordogne rivers’ right bank, about 45 kilometres from Bordeaux city and 9 kilometres from the medieval village of Saint-Émilion. Bordeaux is France’s most prominent wine region and has many divisions and subdivisions. Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine sub-region is located in the Libournais district, within the Saint-Émilion wine appellation. Its vineyards sit at a slightly higher elevation than the other three satellites of Saint-Émilion and have a slightly different soil composition, indicating the diversity between these wine-growing areas. The neighbouring sub-regions of Lussac-Saint-Émilion are Montagne Saint-Émilion, Saint-Georges-Saint-Émilion, Puisseguin Saint-Émilion, Francs – Côtes de Bordeaux, Castillon – Côtes de Bordeaux.

The history of Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine appellation

The Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine region has a rich history and is one of the most prestigious regions in France for its wines. Along with the villages of Montagne, Puisseguin and Saint-George’s Lussac granted their own independent Saint-Émilion appellation name in the middle of the 20th Century, precisely in 1963; before that, they were all operating under one Saint-Émilion name. It is believed that a man named Lucius or Lucaniacus first introduced viticulture to the slopes surrounding present-day Lussac in the Gallo-Roman period. The town was named after him. 

Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine appellation terroir

Most of this wine sub-region is located on the hillside and stretches 1461 hectares. The terroir here is described by the great variety of soils found in different parts of this region. The soil type majority comprises clay and limestone, especially in the southeast of the slope area. There is an elevated gravel and sandy-gravel plateau to the west side, not very wide.

On the other hand, clayey soil or heavy clay can be found predominantly in the north. The subsoil consists of limestone beds that made excellent quarries for extracting soft building stone to the east. To the northwest, there are a few stone quarries and clay. This ideal mixture of soil types guarantees adequate drainage of vines, too. The climate of the area is characterized by moderate rainfall, warm, long summers and an average annual temperature of 14 °C, which makes it even more promising for growing quality grapes, including that there is no real threat of severe frosts either.

Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine characteristics

AOC Lussac-Saint-Émilion produces red wines exclusively, known for their finesse and elegance. The principal grape variety is Merlot, but other varieties are also authorized, such as Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon or the blend of Merlot with Cabernet Franc, called Bouchet and creates an even more enhanced taste. Lussac-Saint-Émilion wines are full-bodied and well-structured, with deep ruby red colour and smooth, velvety structure. Their flavours vary, ranging from red fruits and prunes to leather, spices and liquorice, which they get over ageing. The ageing potential is 3 to 10 years, but the best period to drink it is after four years. The minimum alcohol content is 11%, with quite powerful tannins. The must can also be enriched, but the alcohol content should not exceed 13.5%. The best serving temperature for Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine is 15–17 °C, and an extensive gastronomy gamut goes exceptionally well with these exquisite wines.

Food to pair with Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine

Côte de boeuf aux cèpes

This dish is a French speciality, consisting of a beef rib slowly cooked with cep mushrooms. The rib is cooked for around 6 hours in a mixture of water, red wine, and beef stock. The dish has a rich, dark sauce from the cooking liquid that coats the meat. This sauce is combined with the natural juices from the meat to create a delicious flavour. Côte de boeuf aux cèpes can is served with side dishes like mashed potatoes or green beans and, of course, a glass of fine red wine, for example, Arnozan Lussac-Saint-Émilion 2014.

Pot Au Feu beef and vegetable stew

Pot Au Feu is a French beef and vegetable stew. The ingredients are typically water, salt, carrots, onions, celery, leeks, turnips, and beef. The vegetables are simmered in the broth until they are tender. The broth is then strained through a sieve, and the solids are discarded. The dish is served with a ladleful of boiled liquid poured over it and dry red wine, which is a perfect accompaniment for it. 

Warm Spinach and Artichoke Dip with Comté

This dish is perfect for a cold winter night. The spinach and artichoke dip is made with sweet onion, garlic, and a mix of cheeses. It’s warm and creamy but not heavy. The dish starts with a base of spinach and artichoke dip topped with famous French Comté cheese, which melts beautifully as the dish bakes. The result is creamy and delicious, with just enough heat to make it comforting without being too spicy or heavy. Pairing this cheesy stew with a glass of red wine, such as Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine, makes it ten times more flavourful.

Places to visit around Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine appellation

Château of Lussac 

The Château of Lussac is located in the centre of the village. The Montauroy family built the old castle, but it was severely damaged by fire in 1898 and has had to be rebuilt. It features a blend of classical and medieval architectural styles, which are pretty striking.

Church of Saint-Pierre

The Church of Saint-Pierre was first built in wood, but in the 12th Century, because of a fire, it was rebuilt as a Romanesque building. The construction was completed in the 14th Century, but soon after, by the 16th Century, unfortunately, the church was destroyed again due to religious wars. It was completely restored in 1874. The bell tower with its spire was added, the bell was installed, and the nave was modified to become what it is nowadays. Seeing the church with such a long and complicated survival history is impressive.

Villa Luccius

The villa Luccius, initially called Lussac, is a Gallo-Roman era domain, of which some remains still exist. There are few foundations at Luccius’s villa, of which territory was a vineyard.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lussac-Saint-Émilion wine appellation

Is Lussac Saint-Émilion?

Yes, the Lussac-Saint-Émillion satellite is within the Saint-Émillion appellation.

What is Lussac-Saint-Émilion?

Lussac-Saint-Émilion is a wine-producing appellation located in the Libuornais district of the Bordeaux wine region in southwest France.

Is Saint-Émilion the right bank?

Yes, Saint-Émilion is located on the right bank of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers in the region of Bordeaux.

Map of Wineries in Lussac-Saint-Émilion

Discover the locations of wineries in Lussac-Saint-Émilion